State your topic in the form of a question; that way it’s easier to identify the main
concepts. (If you aren’t able to narrow your general subject down and successfuly write a research question or thesis statement, you need to refine your search strategy until
you can.)

Search for background information on your general subject.
Use this information to identify key concepts and ideas from which you can create a
list of search terms for the library’s catalog and periodical databases. The Reference
Collection is a good place to find background information. Some sources that may be
useful are subject specific dictionaries and encyclopedias, statistical abstracts and
handbooks, chronologies and style guides.

Create a table and list your key terms or main concepts across the top.

Write synonymous terms under each of the key terms. Databases and catalogs sometimes
use different terminologies and you need to be ready to try alternative ways to search.